MASSIVE construction projects in the GCC, particularly around social and transport infrastructure, will offer tremendous opportunities valued at up to $500 billion for contractors, said a report. Of the biggest investments under way is Qatar’s plan to spend $100 billion in preparation for hosting the 2022 Fifa World Cup and achieving its 2030 vision, and Saudi Arabia’s capital spend programme approaching $400 billion over the next 10 years alone, according to the newly released Deloitte Middle East’s annual report on the sector: ‘GCC Powers of Construction: Five Lessons to Learn From’.

The report indicates that long term infrastructure investment plans for the region are estimated to be in excess of $1 trillion. In terms of projects in the pipeline, the majority are social (36 per cent); 29 per cent power-related; 13 per cent in transport; and 13 per cent in oil and gas.